Making time for the moments that matter with VYVGART Hytrulo

As a mom of three daughters, spending time with my girls has always been a big part of my life. From going antiquing to exploring our favorite theme parks together, we’ve never shied away from a fun outing. Those memories are so special to me—and continuing to make them is a priority.

I’m a very driven person, especially as a physical therapist. Helping people is a passion of mine, and I’m as committed to my clients as I am to myself. So when I was diagnosed with CIDP in 2020, I was determined to find a way to manage my symptoms and make adjustments, so I could keep doing what I loved and sharing those experiences with my girls.

Early symptoms: The moment I knew

Since I was already physically active in my career, it was pretty clear to me when something was physically off. During one of my theme park visits, I was having trouble seeing the parade over the large crowd. When I tried to look over the people in front of me, I noticed that I couldn’t stand on my tippy toes. That was the first physical sign something was wrong. Symptoms became more common after that—like my leg dragging as I walked, or lugging a suitcase through the airport feeling exhausting.

It was time to search for answers, and the search was a long one. After talking to multiple doctors, I finally found one who recognized what I had. By that point, I was just grateful to have a diagnosis, because it meant I had answers. I knew I had CIDP; now I could focus on how to move forward.

Advocating for the right treatment for me

Everyone’s CIDP experience is different. My doctor told me about the various treatment options and explained that while one treatment could work for one person, it might not be the right fit for someone else. I stayed in close communication with him as I tried different treatments so we could determine what would be the best option for me. I wanted something that would give me the time I was missing in my day for the people and activities I love. So I told my doctor, “Look, I need to know my options.” And that’s when he told me about VYVGART Hytrulo.

Life with VYVGART Hytrulo

The fact that VYVGART Hytrulo is a once-weekly injection that goes under the skin—not into a vein—was exciting to me. It was an option that I hoped would give me more freedom. And it has. I’m able to better manage my schedule since I don’t feel the burden of planning my life around treatment.

Overall, VYVGART Hytrulo has improved my condition and maintained my arm and leg function. Everyday activities that used to be a challenge are now more manageable—things I took for granted before CIDP, like making my bed or driving. Having the strength to hit the pedal in my car helps me feel empowered again. Plus, I’ve been able to keep up with my exercise routine.

I’m really seeing meaningful gains! Having the time to make plans might be the biggest gain of all. I just went to New York with my family where we did a fair amount of walking, and I was thrilled to see that I was able to keep up and enjoy it!

I used to plan my life around treatment—now I don’t need to do that.

What’s next?

With the positive impact VYVGART Hytrulo has had on my ability to schedule my time, I can focus on things I enjoy. This includes day trips with my daughter to antique shops, exercising, working with my clients, and enjoying nearby theme parks. Thanks to VYVGART Hytrulo, my adventures can continue.